Dave Garroway, born on July 13, 1913, in New York, was an iconic figure in the world of television hosting. He first gained recognition for anchoring the popular show Today on NBC, a role he held from the program's inception in 1952 until 1961. However, his career in broadcasting began long before his time on Today.
After graduating from Washington University in St. Louis with a degree in psychology, Garroway worked in various roles, including as a salesman and laboratory assistant. However, it was his passion for radio that ultimately led him to pursue a career in broadcasting. In 1949, he made his television debut as the host of a Chicago musical variety program called Garroway at Large.
During World War II, Garroway served in the United States Navy and was stationed in Hawaii. It was during this time that he hosted a popular radio music program in Honolulu, showcasing his talent for entertaining and engaging audiences.
Garroway's tenure as the host of Today solidified his place in television history. His warm and engaging personality endeared him to audiences across the country, and he became a household name during the show's early years. In addition to his work on Today, Garroway also hosted a National Educational Television science program in the early 1960s called Exploring the Universe.
Throughout his career, Garroway also hosted radio programs in major cities such as New York, Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles. His versatility and talent as a broadcaster were evident in his ability to connect with audiences across different mediums.
Off-screen, Garroway's personal life was just as eventful as his professional career. He was married three times, with his first two marriages resulting in a daughter named Paris and a son named David, respectively. His third marriage was to an astronomer named Sarah Lee Lippincott, showcasing his interest in science and exploration beyond the world of broadcasting.
Garroway's impact on the world of television hosting cannot be understated. Alongside legends like Arthur Godfrey, he helped pave the way for future hosts and set the standard for engaging and informative broadcasting. His legacy continues to be felt in the industry to this day, with his influence on the medium still evident in the work of modern hosts.
Related links